Fireworks

This post comes a little late -- my schedule is to blame. However, I just HAD to post some of my shots from the National Firework Show. This Independence Day was my second in the Nation's Capital. For me, a Fourth of July enthusiast, fireworks don't get any better than this.

C. Marie

Portland, Oregon: Classical Chinese Botanical Garden

I recently spent a few days in Portland and had a chance to wander around the city and explore. I stumbled upon the beautiful Chinese Botanical Garden located in historic downtown Portland. The 40,000 square foot garden is full of exotic flowers, Asian inspired architecture, and authentic Tai Hu rocks.

Below are a few pictures I snapped while walking the grounds of the garden. I don’t believe these pictures do the garden justice but I hope they inspire you to visit a botanical garden near you.

- S. Christine

Purvis & Robinson LLC: Networking Workshop

A few weeks ago I was asked to shoot at a networking workshop hosted by Purvis and Robinson LLC. These two “profession-istas” led an engaging training about the spoken and unspoken rules of networking events.

The audience was an impressive group of young men, selected from universities across the country to participate in the Institute for Responsible Citizenship summer program. These young men were selected for this program based on their high academic achievement and commitment to serving their community. They represent some of the top colleges in this country and plan to pursue an impressive array of careers upon completion of their studies.

Througout the workshop, students were fascinated with the training topic and inspired some interesting discourse relating to the art of networking. In fact, the training was so engaging that there were several times that I wanted to join in! Afterward, many students stayed behind to ask further questions. The “etiquette aficionados” of Purvis and Robinson LLC were more than happy to provide these eager learners additional advice.

Below are some pictures from the workshop. I look forward to shooting (and learning more) at future events hosted by Purvis and Robinson.

Thanks ladies!

- S. Christine

Pensacola, FL: Congratulations Gerald and Jenny Robinson!

This weekend I had the pleasure of flying down to Pensacola, Florida to witness and participate in the nuptials of Gerald and Jenny Robinson. The weekend was full of love and laughter. From the rehearsal to the couple’s send off, it was clear that guests and the wedding party had an amazing time. I myself didn’t want the fun to end!

Below are a few shots I took during the couple’s rehearsal dinner on Friday, June 25. I am proud to say that I have known both the bride and groom for quite sometime. Gerald is the brother of one of my closest friends (Cornelia Robinson). I have always known Gerald to be a generous, sincere, and loving person. I honestly can not picture Jenny marrying anyone more perfect for her than Gerald. Similarly, I think Jenny is the perfect woman for Gerald. I have known Jenny for about two years and she never ceases to surprise me with her honesty (with the exception of the fact that she won’t admit to being short), generosity, and adventurous spirit. She has been such an inspiration to me over these past couple years. Jenny has been so much more than a great friend to me. She has welcomed me into her family, mentored and supported me in my career decisions (and failures!), and pushed me to grow in ways I wasn’t sure I had the strength to. In short Gerald and Jenny, in their separate ways, have each been a blessing in my life. So I couldn’t be happier that they are starting their life together.

I wish you both many more blessings and an overflow of happiness.

Enjoy your honeymoon in Aruba!

Love,
- S. Christine

Amen, amen, and amen

Tonischia Purvis and I met our junior year of college when we were in the Miss Spelman College Pageant. Little did I know then that one of my fiercest competitors would become one of my dearest friends. Toni is one of my "besties!" We have shared much laughter, many tears, lots of secrets, and our biggest fears.

This weekend, never having been to the west coast before, I hopped a plane and made my way to California so I could salute my bestie's achievement and witness her walk across the stage. As I was en route to the ceremony, I sent her a text telling her to remember that I was there with her. She sent me back a text smiley face, not realizing that I was actually in California and would be attending her graduation. When I found her amongst her fellow graduates before the commencement processional, both of our eyes welled up with tears. I screamed, "We can't cry; we have on mascara!" We then burst into laughter and gave each other a big hug.

Trying to think of a word to describe Toni, the adjective "amazing" first came to mind. She always carries herself with grace and dignity, and she maintains a positive and enthusiastic attitude no matter what obstacles face her. She never lets set-backs stop her, and she constantly pushes herself -- and others -- towards the pinnacle of success. She is a full-time business owner, student, community servant, and an all around inspiration.

It is, both, fitting and proper that Toni received a Master of Arts degree in Christian Leadership. She epitomizes the meaning of Christian Leadership and embodies the principles of Christ in her daily walk. This is only the beginning.

I love you Toni. My prayer is that God continue to shower you with blessings you so graciously pour on others.

- C. Marie